Roslyn Carole Beitler - Obituary

oslyn Carole Beitler, "Roz", was born June 4, 1939, and passed away peacefully September 5, 2024, with friends and family at her bedside. Her life was devoted to bringing together children and books. Whether as children's book editor, or as children's librarian at the Annapolis Area Library and later at Kate Waller Barret Elementary School in Arlington, VA, or as Program Manager for Young Associates and Family Activities of the Smithsonian Resident Associate Program, Roz planned classes and programs that were thoughtful, creative, education, fun and award-winning. At the Smithsonian, she planned and produced 14 to 26 classes and 30 to 40 special events per year, including the popular Evening Picnics at the Zoo, Kite Festivals and sleepovers at Smithsonian museums. Professionally, Roz was active in many organizations. In the American Library Association, for instance, she was appointed to the prestigious Newbery Award Committee, and for the International Board on Books for Young People, she was a U.S. delegate to seven World Congresses around the globe. A self-described "culture vulture," Roz volunteered for Washington National Opera, Kreeger Museum, Kennedy Center, and Arena Stage. She loved to travel and was an avid reader. She arranged many weekend and day trips, museum visits, and performing arts experiences for herself and her grateful friends. Roz lived a full and eventful life. Roz was preceded in death by her parents, Samuel and Cecilia Beitler; sister, Elaine Beitler Lessenco; her brother-in-law, Gilbert Barry Lessenco; her niece, Susan Donna Lessenco; and her nephew, Robert Howard Lessenco. She is survived by her niece, Amy Lessenco Mowles and her cousin, Beverly Hirsch. Funeral services will be private. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to the charity of your choice. Online condolences may be offered using the Memories link on the left side of this page.